Patrol Officer of the Year: Michael McCormack – Matrix Security Group Ltd

The New Zealand Security Association held the industry annual awards via a live stream last Friday evening. Matrix Security is delighted that Michael McCormack, a patrol officer at Cornwall Park, was announced as Patrol Officer of the Year. Edith Swetman, a guard at Auckland’s Kings College, was also a finalist in the Security Officer of the Year category.

Cornwall Park is one of New Zealand’s busiest parks with approximately 4 million visitors each year. Michael provides most of the public-facing rule education and compliance for the park. Over the last year, Michael has responded to and managed many emergency services incidents. Cornwall Park can have up to 300 incidents or issues per month depending on the season. Michael has already received several commendations under the Matrix Security Rewards and Recognition Program. This included the Blake Award in recognition for Michael’s response to a potential suicide in January 2020.

Michael was patrolling the park when he noticed a female who was parked in a car with blood around her neck and wrists. He realised it was an attempted suicide and called emergency services. While waiting for the Police and ambulance, Michael got inside the car, wrapped his arms around the woman and her arms to prevent further injury. Michael remained calm and successfully coordinated the arrival of the Police and ambulance to the location.

Michael has performed many outstanding acts of assistance, from toddlers being knocked over by cyclists or getting lost, people getting injured, and domestic disputes. He shows empathy and concern for the patrons of Cornwall Park beyond the call of duty. His attitude to his work is remarkable; his dedication and engagement with the public is consistent and his work ethic and approach to teamwork is outstanding.

Michael Ayrton, Cornwall Park Director, says “Michael takes his role here at Cornwall Park very seriously. He takes great ownership of the park, relates well to the public and only uses his authority when he has to.”

Matrix Security has a fine history of winning national awards and we celebrate Michael’s success with him!